Here’s a quick list of what NOT to do when selecting a roofing contractor:
1. Accept the word of a guy who comes to the door.
Reputable roofing contractors don’t need to go door-to-door to solicit work and they’d never tell you that you needed a new roof without a full on-roof inspection.
2. Proceed only on the basis of a verbal agreement
A reputable roofing contractor will give you a written agreement that will detail exactly what’s included and what isn’t included in your contract. Verbal agreements give an unscrupulous roofing contractor a wide-open opportunity to ask for more money for “extras”.
3. Take the first quote you’re given
How do you know if you’re paying too much if you don’t have competitive pricing? There are roofing contractors who use high pressure sales tactics to make you sign without giving you the chance to compare with other contractors. Don’t be pressurized and then make sure that you’re comparing apples-to-apples.
4. Go with the cheapest price even though they’re not registered.
Unregistered contractors are not allowed BY LAW to sell or make home improvements of any type – but its especially important with roofing. If they’re unregistered it probably means that they were unable to produce a valid certificate of commercial general liability insurance. Without this YOU, the homeowner, might be liable for any damage or injuries that occurred during the work.
5. Pay in advance
If you pay 100% in advance there’s no incentive for the roofing contractor to complete the job in a timely manner. Reputable roofing companies will require a deposit to get started and then will only expect final payment upon your satisfaction.
Hopefully you’ve not fallen into any of these scenarios. If you need more help we’ve prepared a home contractors checklist for you to help you compare roofing and other home improvement contractors – you can view the home contractors checklist by clicking here. If you’re looking for that competitive quote then we hope you’ll give George J Keller & Sons. LLC the opportunity to provide one for you – call 973-927-0963 today to get started.